In situ and other indicators for Soil organic matter decline

 Physical and ecological Indicators:

Drainage

Parent material

Rock fragments

Slope aspect

Slope gradient

Soil depth

Soil texture

Soil water storage capacity

Exposure of rock outcrops

Organic matter surface horizon

Electrical conductivity

Socio-economic Indicators:

• Agricultural Productivity: Decreased soil organic matter can have adverse effects on agricultural productivity, resulting in reduced crop yields and quality, leading to potential economic losses for farmers.

• Livelihoods and Food Security: Soil degradation linked to decreasing soil organic matter can impact local livelihoods and food security, especially in regions where agriculture is a primary source of income and sustenance.

• Land Value: Degraded soils with lower organic matter content may experience a decline in land value, affecting property prices and investment potential.

• Soil Conservation Costs: Addressing soil organic matter decline requires additional efforts and costs for soil conservation practices such as organic amendments, cover cropping, and crop rotation. These costs can impact the socio-economic aspects of land management.